Hervormde Kerk Marken Reviews

Two older ladies in Marken costume were in the church, talking to each other, just the normal local stuff - Marken people are very much to theirselves, however they would answer your questions if you had any. I must make the remark that I don't know if they could speak any other language than Dutch.

Small leaflets in various languages explaining the history of the church and church community are free to take.

The church is free to visit but it will be highly appreciated if you donate something at the box near the exit for the maintenance of the church building.

This very spot is the place since medieval times for a chapel or church. A monastery was founded in 1232, and a chapel dedicated to Mary was built by the monks. In 1843 a small church was built because the chapel was about to collapse. After a few decades the church was already ruinous and by 1904 it had to make place for the present church.

This new church has been built in a sober, calvinistic architecture-style.

It houses a beautiful oak pulpit with Ionic pilasters and a rich carved reading-desk, both of the 17th century. The church is lighted up by three brass chandeliers each holds 12 candles.

The reformation on Marken was about 1570. The decoration in the church consists of some fine little ships, which remind the former fishing-trade, and represent a deep religious sense. When Marken fishermen went out on the sea they always took the Big seaman's guide, that is the Bible, with them on board.